ExxonMobil to drill offshore Liberia

Created: Monday, 16 November 2015 07:08

ExxonMobil is expected to start drilling late 2015 or early 2017. (Image source: Dabarti_CGI)Oil giant ExxonMobil is seeking to start drilling in Liberia following the Ebola crisis that hit the country this year

Countries such as Nigeria and Ghana have awarded a number of exploration blocks offshore and Liberia has followed suit.

ExxonMobil plans to begin drilling late 2015 or early 2017, Steven Buck, its country manager for Liberia and Ivory Coast stated. The US oil firm signed for block 13 in 2013, however placed the project on hold due to the Ebola epidemic.

According to President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, ExxonMobil has shown commitment and strength despite falling prices in the global market. Although the Ebola Crisis affected ExxonMobil, it has re-opened its offices in Liberia so it can resume business.

"I am very excited to see ExxonMobil here," said Sirleaf following a meeting with Buck.

"Their presence demonstrates to the world that Liberia is once more on the move," added Sirleaf.

The United States has lifted economic sanctions on Liberia that it had put in place against former president, Charles Taylor.